Fire Explosion Cause Origin Expert Witness Metts Hardy

E. Metts Hardy, IAAI-CFI, CFEI, CHMT has more than 36 years of experience conducting fire service and insurance-related investigations, specializing in Fires and Explosions in Residential and Commercial Properties, Vehicles etc.

He is the Practice Leader of the Fire Investigation Division within EFI Global. He assisted in the development of the company's standardized Fire FACS reporting system and makes regular updates to enhance performance and quality.

Mr. Hardy has conducted in excess of 3,000 fire origin and cause investigations. He has attended and instructed numerous seminars and continuing education programs related to fire investigation and NFPA 921 for the public and private sector.

Mr. Hardy provides expert witness testimony in state and federal courts in origin and causes of fires and explosions in Mississippi, Louisiana, Kentucky and Tennessee. He services are available to insurance companies and attorneys for both Plaintiff and Defense.

Personal Injury Defense (TN) - origin and cause investigation into a gas leak and ensuing fire that critically burned a construction worker. Investigation determined that incident was result of negligence of individual filing suit

What does the insurer do once the fire is out? Normally, the property loss notice is submitted by the insured as soon as possible to begin the adjustment process, collect for damages, and get life back in order. The insurer takes this information and relates it to the adjuster, who then investigates and settles the claim. In fire losses, many times the adjuster will seek the services of a fire investigator or other expert to assist in determining the cause of loss so he or she can make an informed decision as to how to proceed with adjusting the claim. But the expert assigned to a certain loss can make all the difference in the world in how a claim is settled and whether there is an avenue for recovery of insurance funds or protection in potential liability claims.